201ST EDITION OF VOICE OF THE MIMBARR 26-05-1448 AH/06-11-2026 CE— EL-NINO: CAUSES, PREVENTION AND SPIRITUAL LESSONS_ BY DR RASAQ BOLAWAYE UTHMAN

Bismillah Ar-Rahman Ar-Rahim

'Mischief has appeared on land and sea, because of (the meed) that the hands of men have earned, that (Allah) may give them a taste of some of their deeds: in order that they may turn back (from evil) (Qur'an 30:41)'. This Ayah is apt and instrumental to the situation man finds himself in relation to the sporadic change in the atmospheric condition of life. Glory be to Allah (SubhanaHu Wa Ta 'ala (SWT)) in all ramifications. May the prace and blessings of Allah be upon the noble Messenger Muhammad (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam (SAW)) and the entire followers of his true guidance toll eternity. 

Last edition introduced to us the global phenomenon accountable for the current excessive global warming. Defining the concept to appeal to imagination becomes necessary in view of the fact that part and parcel of the environment is man and he is equally a stakeholder in the scheme. There is hardly any natural occurrence without human factor. The current situation would not be an exemption. 

The result of ever-increasing urbanization gave way for most farm settlements, plantations and rural abodes with perfect conducive oxygen-laden to carbon-laden and industrial waste polluted environs. This resulted from incessant and unreplaced felling of trees, polluting the rivers and oceans with indiscriminate release of waste, burning the forest and vegetation, improper disposal of plastic refuse which ultimately destroy natural habitats and resources. 

This results in degradation with indexes as drought, flood, deforestation and dearth of natural serenity characterised tropical areas. The fact that no man has the knowledge of the unseen, he is left with no option than to take advantage of whatever situation that comes to intensify reflection and repentance; and taking responsibility and preparation for the upcoming reality. It is to this end that Allah warns in Qur'an 7:56 that: 'Do not mischief on the earth, after it has been set in order, but call on Him with fear and longing (in your hearts): for the Mercy of Allah is (always) near to those who do good'. 

Meanwhile, human have to cope with El-nino cause unusual warming, weakened trade winds, changes in atmospheric condition such as temperature patterns, and climatic variations as part of larger El-Nino- Southern Oscillation. Consequence upon this, there is possibility of extension of weather condition beyond the expected period. By implications, however, it implants on the economy, health, agric, food supply and general well-being. The questions coming to mind include 'could there be anything to be done to arrest the situation enunciated above?

There are a lot of things doable in both short and long term bases to reduce to barest minimal the effects of natural weather changes. First in this category is the measures to ensure deforestation is put to a halt. In other word, all hands must be on deck to facilitate a-forestation through planting and preservation of trees and plantation. This restores the survival of a whole lot of creatures that are connected to the substance of the ecosystem. In this regard, Sahihu Bukhari-reported Hadith bears relevantly on this matter.

It says: 'If a Muslim plants a crip or any benefitting plant on which bird, human being of animal feeds, Allah will record it for him as charity (Bukhari: 2320)'. It is in contrary to this that man should avoid environmental pollution of various type. Water is indeed a source of life. Conserving it is of paramount importance during the hot weather for safety of man, animal and plants as well. Drinking water would prevent de-hydration. Also through this, several heat-related illnesses could be avoided. Preparing for drought is also part of the challenges to face during El-nino weather which is predicted to last between September 2026 to March 2027.

As a matter of fact, creating awareness about the whole situation would go a long way to avert the possible danger inherent in the variegated weather. This follows the Hadith if the noble Messenger (SAW) saying: 'Be passionate about what could benefit you, then seek help from Allah and never hurry (Sahihu Muslim 2664))'. We are equally miffed with lack of spacious balcony and veranda of the old time which are often used for village meetings and other social and communal occasions. This is yet another human factor to causes of change in weather condition. Apart of the (Omo-onile) land-lords' menace of indiscriminate distribution of land, the Government Ministry in charge of housing appears far behind the ethical concern in approving constructions which are rather inimical to harmonious living of the polity. 

El-nino also attracts spiritual importance. The fact is that no human being has absolute control of environmental changes even though the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), Nigeria Meteorological (NiMet) and the likes so strive and all efforts in the category might not go beyond predicting and safety warning. Of more importance is for a man to appreciate Allah's blessings in order to be re-directed toward ultimate repentance and forgiveness at all time. Caring for others would move him beyond ego-centric, selfish and self-centered behaviours. Most importantly, the final solution from vicissitudes of life is nothing but combining Du'a (prayer) with relative actions necessary for accomplishment. 

We supplicate to Almighty Allah for ground-breaking blessing, forgiveness of sins and perfect well being. We pray for profound rain that benefits the creatures. Safe us from drought, the tormenting weather and all endemic discomfort. Bless our gifted water, crops and stocks. Oh Allah, bless the weak, the poor and the needy. We pray for forgiveness of sins, betterment of our lots and perfect guidance to the peaceful way. Finally, bless us with goodness in this world and in the hereafter and protect us from hell. Till we meet again in the next edition. Stay protected in this changing weather and Jum'at mubarakah.

©DR RAZAQ BOLAWAYE UTHMAN, 

IMAM & MISSIONER ANSAR-UD-DEEN SOCIETY OF NIGERIA IPAJA BRANCH LAGOS STATE NIGERIA. 

2026